Modern strategies and methods of forming critical thinking in students

Abstract

The article defines approaches to the interpretation of the concept of «critical thinking». In particular, the following approaches are proposed: general definition, psychological approach, philosophical approach, education approach, social approach, cognitive approach, pedagogical approach, logical approach, emotional approach, strategic approach, ethical approach, interactive approach, scientific approach, creative approach, practical approach, integration approach, independent approach. The article also suggests considering critical thinking as a component of personal development, which provides the ability to interact with information, evaluate it at different levels and from different perspectives, make informed decisions and be open to new ideas. In addition, the following effective strategies for the formation of critical thinking among students are defined: strategy of active learning, strategy of problem-based learning, strategy of questions and answers, strategy of using visual tools, strategy of reflection, strategy «What if?», strategy «Critical analysis», strategy of cooperation and discussions, feedback strategy. In the article special attention is paid to the methods of formation of critical thinking of students. In particular, current methods are considered, which are widely used in foreign practice and their application is appropriate in Ukraine: the Socratic method, which is based on question-answer and promotes the development of critical thinking by asking open questions that do not have clear answers; a brainstorming method that allows students to freely generate ideas that are then evaluated and analyzed; a case study method that involves the analysis of real or fictional situations where students must solve a problem by applying knowledge and skills; a method of argument analysis that focuses on parsing and evaluating arguments, including determining their strength, logic and validity; Edward de Bono's “6 Hats Technique”, which involves students looking at a problem from different perspectives, each of which is represented by a specific hat color; the method «Search for alternatives», which helps students develop the skill of finding alternative solutions when solving complex problems; the «Group Work» method, which allows students to discuss and solve problems together, which also stimulates critical thinking through interaction and discussion of different points of view; a method of problem-based learning that aims to solve real or imagined problems that stimulate students to find solutions, analyze and make informed decisions.